Kissing congressman decides against FBI probe of leaked video

Rep. Vance McAllister, R-La., center, won a special election to Congress in November 2013. (Emerald McIntyre, The News-Star, via AP)

This post has been updated.

Rep. Vance McAllister, a married Louisiana Republican, won’t seek an FBI investigation into who leaked video showing him kissing a female aide.

McAllister’s office issued a statement Wednesday to The News Star in Monroe explaining the change.

Congressman McAllister’s office will not pursue an FBI investigation at this time regarding the distribution of a video filmed in leased federal office space. Congressman McAllister is focused on earning back the trust of those he has disappointed, and he reiterates his request for privacy for his family during this difficult period.

Adam Terry, McAllister’s chief of staff, previously told the Louisiana newspaper that McAllister would make the FBI investigation request because the congressman believed there was a “breach in security.”

McAllister, who promoted traditional Christian values throughout his campaign, has not been seen at the U.S. House this week after the video given to The Ouchita Citizen was posted Monday. The video, taken two days before Christmas inside the congressman’s office, shows McAllister passionately kissing Melissa Peacock, a part-time scheduler who is no longer on staff.

The congressman has apologized to his wife and five children, and he seeks forgiveness from his family and constituents.

Before this week’s controversy, McAllister was perhaps best known for two things: winning a special election in November and his close ties to Willie Robertson of the family featured in the Duck Dynasty reality TV show.